MS-Applied Exercise Physiology

INTRODUCTION

Students in our Master of Science in Applied Exercise Physiology program receive advanced training in human performance consisting of knowledge, skills and abilities in biochemistry, nutrition, psychology, physiology, and sport and clinical exercise physiology. Additionally, students can choose either a thesis or a non-thesis option. In the thesis option, students complete 30 credits of coursework as well as 6 credits of research-based scientific study that will prepare them for mid-level employment in the field and/or entrance into doctoral programs should they choose to continue their education beyond the master level. In the non-thesis option, students complete 30 credits of coursework followed by 6 credits of an academic-year-long internship, many with one of the University’s athletic teams or Semi-Professional sports teams in Erie, as well as local hospitals and rehabilitation facilities to provide students with a variety of clinical experiences with a concentration in Human Performance. This M.S. degree is a 36 credit-hour program that is designed to be completed in one calendar year. Students can expect to receive advanced education in many facets of human performance including the physiological, biomechanical, nutritional, and psychological factors that both enhance and limit our movement capabilities. The program offers two-degree options: a thesis option, and a non-thesis, year-long internship option. Classes are offered in the morning in the summer, and in the afternoon, evening and online during the fall and spring semesters to accommodate working students. A part-time option is available for students who are unable to devote the time necessary to attend on a full-time basis. The program is designed to prepare students for gainful employment and/or further graduate training.

ACCREDITATION

The Master of Science in Sport and Exercise Science is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES) and CAAHEP’s Board of Directors.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• Earned a four-year degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

• GPA of at least 2.75 on a 4.0 scale in undergraduate coursework. Performance in prior graduate work will be considered.

• Successful applicants will have preparation in the sciences that may include coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, anatomy/physiology and/or exercise physiology.

• 2 letters of recommendation. Letters can be personal (Coach/Mentor), professional (Boss/Supervisor) or academic (Professor/Advisor). (1 academic required)

• A 750 word essay (describe personal goals and how this degree will help you pursue them)

• Current Resume/CV

• Successful interview with at least two members of the admissions committee

ADMISSIONS PROCESS

Candidates will be considered on a rolling basis for the summer cohort of the calendar year for which they are applying. On special occasion, students may be considered for fall or spring semester entry. Students will be required to submit an official transcript along with the standard graduate school application as well as three letters of recommendation. Students will be notified of admissions decisions after review by the department admissions committee.

DEGREE COMPLETION OPTION: THESIS

Students choosing the thesis option will complete 30 credits of coursework as well as 6 credits of research-based, faculty supervised, scientific study that will culminate in the preparation and defense of the master’s thesis, a requirement for graduation. This option prepares the student not only for mid-level employment in the field but also entrance into doctoral programs should they choose to continue their education beyond the master’s level. Students will use the first summer session to review current research in the field and to develop a research question of their own. The fall and spring will consist of development, preparation and defense of the master’s thesis. While this is certainly an aggressive time frame, provisions are in place that will allow students to extend their graduate program until the thesis project is completed.

DEGREE COMPLETION OPTION: INTERNSHIP

In the non-thesis option, students will complete 30 credit hours of coursework as well as 6 credits of an academic-year-long internship, many with one of the University’s athletic teams or a clinical site of their choosing. Under the supervision of both members of the faculty as well as the coaching staff of their respective team or clinical site coordinator, the student intern will serve in the capacity of strength and conditioning coach on their respective teams or exercise/rehabilitation specialist at their clinical site. Students will assist in the design, implementation, maintenance, and assessment of the team’s conditioning activities. NOTE: It is required that students have at least attempted, and preferably successfully completed certification requirements through either the National Strength and Conditioning Association (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) or the American College of Sports Medicine (Health and Fitness Specialist) prior to starting their internship experience. Both of these certification exams are available in a computer-based format that allows for immediate results. Both also require a fee that will be the responsibility of the student upon registration.